UK gives green light to 190MW Helios solar project development

Enso Energy has confirmed that the 190MW Helios solar project has received official approval from the UK's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. This consent permits the development of ground-mounted solar panels along with energy storage systems, capable of generating over 50MW of electricity.

The project is a joint effort between Enso Energy and Cero Generation, located west of Camblesforth and north of Hirst Courtney in North Yorkshire. It will also include the construction of necessary grid connection facilities to integrate the electricity produced into the national network.

The planning application for the Helios project was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate in July 2024 and accepted for review in the same month. The examination phase allowed public involvement and input from statutory consultees and other stakeholders, who could present evidence to the Examining Authority. After a six-month evaluation, recommendations were provided to the secretary of state on 3 September 2025, taking into account local viewpoints and submitted evidence.

The final development consent was granted by Minister for Energy Consumers Martin McCluskey on behalf of the energy secretary. Bill Rees, managing director of Enso Energy, commented: We are thrilled to receive this approval. The Helios project represents a significant step toward meeting the UK governments Clean Power 2030 objectives and advancing the nations shift to domestic renewable energy.

Author: Noah Whitman